Bali Temples & Rice Terraces: Private Day Trip with Hot Springs

Summary

Rice terraces, water temples, local flavors and warm springs across Bali’s heartland

You’ll start your private Bali day trip with cool mountain air at Taman Ayun Temple before exploring Ulun Danu Beratan’s lakeside shrines and tasting fruit at Candikuning Market. Soak in Penatahan hot springs, walk Jatiluwih’s endless rice terraces, then watch sunset waves crash at Tanah Lot — all with local stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to feel so cool up in Bedugul — almost like someone turned down the volume on Bali’s usual heat. Our driver, Wayan, grinned when I shivered stepping out at Taman Ayun Temple. He told us the ponds here are full of fish that locals believe bring luck if you spot them jumping. I watched a woman in a bright sarong toss a crumb into the water and honestly, for a second, it felt like time slowed down. The temple itself sits quietly behind its moat; not flashy or crowded that morning, just soft chanting somewhere in the distance and the smell of wet earth after last night’s rain.

We reached Ulun Danu Beratan Temple just as some mist started curling over the lake. The temple really does look like it’s floating — photos don’t quite get how peaceful it is. Our guide explained how locals still come to make offerings for water blessings. He handed me a tiny flower and showed me how to place it by the shrine (I probably did it wrong but he smiled anyway). Lunch was nearby — fried rice with little bits of chili and something sweet I couldn’t name. Afterward we wandered through Candikuning Market where women called out prices for strawberries and mangosteen. I bought both; my hands smelled fruity all afternoon.

Later at Penatahan Hot Springs, I sank into warm water while kids splashed in another pool below. Steam drifted up and there was this earthy mineral scent mixed with river air. Not fancy but real — a few old men chatting quietly on the edge, everyone moving slow like they had nowhere else to be. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces were just up the road but felt like another world; endless green steps curving along the hillsides. The sun came out for a minute and lit everything gold-green — I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes.

Tanah Lot was our last stop before heading back. You can’t go inside but standing on the rocks watching waves crash around the temple… well, it’s something you feel more than see. There were families lighting incense and teenagers taking selfies; one little boy offered me a piece of sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf (I took it — why not?). We drove home quiet, tired in that good way after a long day out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit temples, market, hot springs, rice terraces

• Pickup from hotel or villa
• Visit Taman Ayun Temple
• Visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• Lunch near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
• Visit Candikuning Fruit Market
• Visit Penatahan Hot Springs
• Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
• Visit Tanah Lot Temple
• Return to hotel or villa

Top questions

How long is this Bali temples & rice terraces day trip?

The tour lasts approximately 10-11 hours including pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Is lunch included on this private Bali day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at a restaurant near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple if you book the all-inclusive option.

Are entrance fees covered on this tour?

If you choose the all-inclusive package, entrance tickets are included; otherwise they’re extra.

Can I visit Jatiluwih Rice Terraces on this route?

Yes, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are part of this private day trip itinerary from Bali.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Pickup and drop-off from hotels or villas in most south/central Bali areas are included.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested at booking.

Do we have time to soak in Penatahan Hot Springs?

Yes, there’s time scheduled to relax at Penatahan Hot Springs during your tour.

Is there an English-speaking guide or driver?

Your private driver also acts as your English-speaking guide throughout the day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere from Ubud to Seminyak or Canggu (and more), entry fees if you choose all-inclusive, an English-speaking driver-guide sharing local stories along every stop, plus lunch near Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (vegetarian available). You’ll travel by air-conditioned vehicle between temples, markets, hot springs and rice terraces before returning home as evening falls.